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Hamilton – July 6, 2009 – Construction of The Mark Preece Family House began again after it was partially destroyed in a devastating fire caused by arson on December 4, 2008 while under construction.

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to everyone at Hamilton Health Sciences and to the insurers who have allowed us to continue to fulfill our mission,” said J.A. (Sandy) Craik, Chair, Board of Directors, Mark Preece Family House. “Thank you also to the community for all of their wishes of support and financial contributions — we will continue to rely on both as we move forward. We remain completely committed to this community need and welcome ongoing support.”

The original renovations to The Mark Preece Family House began in 2007, with the house anticipated to be fully operational by the fall of 2009. The unfortunate fire has delayed the project, however, the new family house will be open and fully functioning by summer 2010.

“The Mark Preece Family House will truly make a difference for families experiencing a medical crisis who require temporary lodgings while loved ones are being treated in hospital,” said Elaine Scrivener, Executive Director, Mark Preece Family House. “We are looking forward to opening and providing our much-needed services to families.”

“We’re very pleased to see this project moving forward again,” said Murray Martin, President and CEO, Hamilton Health Sciences. “We believe in this unique project and are proud to partner with the Mark Preece Family House to provide our families with support at a time when they need it most.”

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The Mark Preece Family House was named after Dr. Mark Preece, a young and respected critical care physician who worked at Hamilton Health Sciences and died of cancer in 1997 at age 38. Mark’s family stayed in a similar family house close the hospital where he received specialized cancer treatment in the United States. The MPFH is a “home away from home” for family members of hospitalized patients in Hamilton. It will provide affordable, accessible and safe accommodation in a compassionate and supportive environment close to the Hamilton General Hospital.